In 2025, the open road is calling again. As air travel anxiety continues to rise, and burnout drives many Americans to escape their routines, the allure of a road trip is stronger than ever. According to a survey of 1,000 U.S. travelers, more and more people are choosing to drive instead of fly. This shift in travel behavior is due to a variety of factors, including fears surrounding air travel safety, the desire to relieve stress, and the flexibility offered by road trips. With 45% of travelers citing recent airline issues as a reason to drive, the 2025 summer travel season has seen a noticeable increase in road trips, reshaping how Americans are approaching their vacations.

As more people opt for road trips, this growing trend is not only redefining what a summer getaway looks like but also creating significant shifts in the tourism industry. From shorter routes and packed coolers to unique detours and fresh playlists, road trips are no longer the long-haul journeys they once were. In this article, we explore the rise of road trips in 2025, examining why Americans are reclaiming the road, the new trends in road trip destinations, and how these shifts are impacting the tourism industry.

The Rise of Road Trips: Why Americans Are Driving Instead of Flying

Americans are hitting the road in record numbers, and it’s not just about the freedom of the open highway. The ongoing anxiety surrounding air travel has played a significant role in this shift. According to the survey, 45% of Americans say recent airline crashes and malfunction coverage have pushed them to choose road trips over flights this summer. These fears are especially pronounced among younger generations, with 80% of Gen Z and 60% of millennials avoiding air travel. As news of airline incidents circulates, many travelers feel that driving provides more control and peace of mind.

Along with safety concerns, many Americans are turning to road trips to combat stress and burnout. Nearly 40% of travelers are choosing the open road as a way to disconnect from their daily routines and recharge. This trend of seeking emotional escape is fueling the growing popularity of shorter, more manageable road trips that offer the flexibility to take detours and stop at unplanned destinations.

A Shift Toward Shorter Road Trips: Changing the Definition of Summer Travel

One key trend in 2025 road trips is that Americans are keeping their journeys closer to home. In the past, long cross-country drives were a staple of road trip culture, but today, 60% of travelers are planning trips within 500 miles of their homes. This shift indicates a redefinition of what a road trip means, with many opting for shorter, more accessible routes that allow for quick getaways without the stress of long driving hours.

Despite the focus on shorter distances, the multi-day road trip is still alive and well. While fewer people are embarking on long-haul drives, only 4% of respondents said they were planning a one-day trip. This suggests that the appeal of a road trip still lies in its ability to offer a change of scenery and a break from the everyday grind, even if it’s within a more manageable distance.

Who’s Hitting the Road? Road Trip Partners and Solo Travelers

When it comes to who’s hitting the road, companionship is key for most American travelers. A majority of road trippers (86%) will travel with others, and 89% of these include pets in their journey. However, there is a noticeable difference in travel preferences between generations. Gen Z, in particular, is more likely to go solo, with nearly 1 in 5 planning to travel alone. This is a stark contrast to baby boomers, where only 7% choose to embark on solo trips.

The rise of solo road trips among Gen Z speaks to a desire for independence and personal exploration, while older generations are more inclined to travel with family or friends. Despite these generational differences, the road trip remains a shared experience for most travelers, offering both freedom and connection with loved ones.

Accommodations on the Road: The Shift from Hotels to Home Rentals

Traditionally, road trippers have relied on hotels and motels for overnight stays, but that norm is changing. In 2025, 1 in 5 travelers are opting for home rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, bringing added comfort and convenience to their road trip experiences. Gen Z is leading this trend, with 33% of this generation now preferring home rentals—triple the rate of baby boomers, who still prefer traditional hotels.

This shift in accommodation preferences reflects the growing desire for more personalized and flexible travel experiences. Home rentals offer travelers the opportunity to stay in unique, private properties that allow them to feel more at home while on the road. Whether it’s a cozy cabin in the woods or a beachfront villa, these types of accommodations are becoming an increasingly popular choice for road trippers seeking a different kind of adventure.

How Road Trips Are Helping Americans Manage Their Travel Budgets

As travel costs continue to rise, many Americans are turning to road trips as an affordable alternative to flying. According to the survey, packing meals is one of the top ways to cut road trip costs, with 40% of travelers skipping restaurants to save money. The ability to control expenses is one of the main draws of a road trip, as it allows for greater flexibility in budgeting.

In addition to packing food, travelers are also avoiding toll roads and cities with expensive parking fees. Many are choosing shorter trips or sharing costs with travel companions to keep expenses manageable. Interestingly, while gas prices remain a concern for road trippers, 26% of travelers are continuing with their plans despite higher fuel costs. This indicates that the freedom and flexibility of road trips outweigh the financial challenges for many Americans.

The Role of Music and Technology in the Road Trip Experience

A road trip wouldn’t be complete without the perfect playlist. The survey revealed that Rihanna is the #1 artist Americans want to listen to during their road trips, surpassing Taylor Swift and Beyoncé. Music plays a critical role in creating the road trip experience, setting the tone for the journey and adding to the sense of adventure.

In addition to music, technology is transforming how Americans plan and experience their road trips. Many travelers are using apps to map out their routes, find lodging, and explore new destinations. Gen Z, in particular, is heavily reliant on tech, using AI tools like ChatGPT to plan their trips, research destinations, and prepare packing lists. While older generations may still rely on traditional methods, technology is playing an increasingly important role in how travelers navigate the open road.

Road Trip Fears and Challenges: Overcoming Travel Anxiety

While road trips offer a sense of freedom, they also come with their own set of anxieties and challenges. Car troubles are the top concern for 27% of Americans, while high gas prices and long driving hours are also sources of stress. Despite these challenges, road trippers are finding ways to manage their fears. For example, many are opting for roadside assistance programs to help with breakdowns, while others are shortening their trips to save on fuel costs.

Interestingly, Gen Zers have different road trip anxieties compared to other generations. While car troubles are a concern for many, only 17% of Gen Zers fear vehicle issues, compared to 27% of the general population. This suggests that younger travelers may be more confident in their ability to handle potential road trip challenges.

Conclusion: The Revival of the Road Trip in 2025

In 2025, road trips are not just a nostalgic pastime—they are a critical part of how Americans are choosing to travel. With fears surrounding air travel, the desire to escape burnout, and the appeal of flexibility, more travelers are opting for the open road. Whether it’s a short trip to a nearby national park, a solo adventure, or a family getaway, the road trip offers a sense of freedom and adventure that flying simply can’t match.

As the travel industry continues to evolve, the road trip is redefining the way Americans approach vacations. With music, technology, and budget-friendly solutions enhancing the experience, the open road is calling, and Americans are answering in record numbers. For many, it’s not just about the destination—it’s about the journey.